Tidal marshes form in low-lying coastal areas that are sheltered from strong winds, waves, and currents. Nourished by tidal flows and with rapidly growing grasses, salt marshes form the basis of a highly productive food web. They are complex natural systems which support different plants and animals in a variety of habitats. In addition to nourishing many species of birds, finfish, shellfish, and invertebrates, marshes buffer upland shorelines against erosive actions of open water, protect low-lying uplands and shorelines during storms, and maintain water quality.

This guide looks at key questions: What Are Salt Marshes? Who Needs Salt Marshes? Why Are Many Salt Marshes in Trouble? What Can Be Done to Improve Degraded Salt Marshes? Plus offers resources for further inquiry and a useful glossary.